Thyssenkrupp Steel is undertaking a significant restructuring effort, aiming to cut 11,000 jobs to address its high production costs and improve competitiveness. The company's new HR director, Dirk Schulte, plans to introduce a social plan to support affected employees. This plan includes provisions for partial retirement, severance payments, and transfer companies, with the goal of facilitating job transitions for employees.
The restructuring plans have prompted discussions with the IG Metall union, as Thyssenkrupp seeks to negotiate a collective agreement. The aim is to secure employment, preserve locations, and ensure investments in the green transformation of the steel industry. However, the union has expressed strong opposition to the proposed job cuts, insisting that any negotiations exclude compulsory redundancies and site closures. Additionally, IG Metall demands a commitment to the company's long-term financial stability.
These developments come as Thyssenkrupp Steel faces challenges in maintaining cost-effective production compared to its rivals. The company seeks to adapt to changing industry dynamics while minimizing the impact on its workforce. As discussions with IG Metall are set to begin shortly, the outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future course of Thyssenkrupp's steel division and its employees.
